5” vs 7” Gym Shorts: How to Pick the Perfect Length for Your Height

If you've spent any time browsing Reddit fitness communities, reading gym gear reviews, or shopping for workout shorts online, you've probably seen the same question come up again and again:

"Should I buy 5-inch or 7-inch gym shorts?"

It sounds simple, but the answer depends on more than just personal preference.

Across Reddit threads, YouTube comment sections, and customer support chats, men frequently ask:

• Are 5-inch shorts too short?

• Are 7-inch shorts outdated?

• Which length makes your legs look better?

• What's best for running versus lifting?

• Does height matter?

• What length do most athletic guys wear today?

Let's break it all down.

The Quick Answer

If you're looking for a simple rule:

Under 5'8" (173 cm):
→ Start with 5" shorts.

5'8"–6'0" (173–183 cm):
→ Both 5" and 7" work well.

Over 6'0" (183 cm):
→ 7" is usually the safer choice, although many athletic men still prefer 5" for training.

That said, your build, training style, and comfort level matter just as much as your height.

Why Inseam Length Matters More Than Most Guys Think

Many first-time buyers assume all gym shorts fit similarly.

Then they order a pair online and realize:

• The shorts feel too long.

• Their legs look shorter.

• Fabric bunches during squats.

• The shorts ride up while running.

• Or they're showing way more thigh than expected.

The reason?

Inseam length dramatically changes how gym shorts look and perform.

A difference of just two inches can completely change:

• Mobility

• Appearance

• Comfort

• Athletic performance

What Do 5-Inch Gym Shorts Look Like?

A 5-inch inseam typically lands:

• Mid-thigh on average-height men

• Slightly above mid-thigh on taller men

• Near the knee midpoint on shorter men

This is the modern athletic look that has become increasingly popular among:

• Runners

• CrossFit athletes

• Bodybuilders

• Hyrox competitors

• Functional fitness enthusiasts

Pros of 5" Shorts

✅ Greater freedom of movement

✅ Better airflow

✅ Easier for squats, lunges, and deadlifts

✅ Makes legs appear longer

✅ Shows quad development

✅ Modern athletic aesthetic

Cons of 5" Shorts

❌ Can feel revealing for first-time wearers

❌ May ride up on men with larger thighs

❌ Some people feel uncomfortable wearing shorter shorts in public

What Do 7-Inch Gym Shorts Look Like?

A 7-inch inseam typically falls:

• A few inches above the knee

• Around lower-thigh level

• Closer to traditional athletic shorts

For many men, this is the safest starting point.

Pros of 7" Shorts

✅ More coverage

✅ Comfortable for everyday wear

✅ Easy transition from gym to casual activities

✅ Popular among beginners

✅ Works well for most body types

Cons of 7" Shorts

❌ Slightly less mobility

❌ Can make shorter men appear shorter

❌ May bunch during intense workouts

❌ Doesn't showcase leg development as much

The Most Common Reddit Debate: Are 5-Inch Shorts Too Short?

This question appears constantly.

The short answer:

Not anymore.

Ten years ago, many gym-goers considered 5-inch shorts extremely short.

Today, they're completely mainstream.

If you watch modern running races, Hyrox events, CrossFit competitions, or fitness influencers, you'll notice many athletes wear 3", 5", or 5.5" inseams.

What changed?

Performance apparel shifted toward:

• Better mobility

• Lightweight fabrics

• Athletic aesthetics

• Functional movement

As a result, 5-inch shorts have become normal rather than extreme.

Which Length Makes Your Legs Look Better?

This is another question frequently asked in customer support chats.

Generally:

5" Shorts

Create the illusion of:

• Longer legs

• Larger quads

• More athletic proportions

Especially beneficial for:

• Men under 5'10"

• Men with muscular thighs

• Men with shorter inseams

7" Shorts

Create a more balanced appearance for:

• Taller men

• Slim builds

• Casual wear

They provide a cleaner, less aggressive athletic look.

Best Shorts for Shorter Men

If you're:

• 5'5"

• 5'6"

• 5'7"

You may find that many 7-inch shorts feel surprisingly long.

A common complaint from shorter customers is:

"The shorts almost look like basketball shorts."

Because shorter legs naturally make the inseam appear longer.

For most men under 5'8", 5-inch shorts usually create more balanced proportions.

Best Shorts for Tall Men

Tall men often ask:

"Will 5-inch shorts look too short on me?"

Not necessarily.

Many men over 6'1" wear 5-inch shorts for:

• Running

• Leg day

• HIIT workouts

• Cross-training

However, if you're new to shorter inseams, 7-inch shorts usually feel more familiar.

A practical approach:

• 5" for training

• 7" for everyday wear

Many athletes end up owning both.

Running vs Lifting: Does It Matter?

Absolutely.

For Running

Most runners prefer:

• 3"

• 5"

• 5.5"

Why?

Less fabric means:

• Reduced chafing

• Better stride freedom

• Improved ventilation

For Weight Training

Both lengths work.

Choose:

5" if you prioritize mobility

7" if you want more coverage

For exercises like:

• Squats

• Lunges

• Box jumps

• Burpees

Many lifters eventually gravitate toward shorter inseams.

What Length Do Most Men Regret Buying?

Based on common customer support inquiries, one pattern appears repeatedly:

Many men regret buying shorts that are too long.

Typical comments include:

• "I wish I ordered the shorter version."

• "The fit feels baggy."

• "They look bigger than expected."

• "I didn't realize inseam length made such a difference."

The opposite happens less frequently.

Most customers who try 5-inch shorts need a few workouts to adjust, then end up preferring them.

The Best Choice for Most Men

If you're still undecided:

Choose 5" Shorts If:

• You're under 5'10"

• You run regularly

• You train legs frequently

• You want maximum mobility

• You like a modern athletic look

Choose 7" Shorts If:

• You're over 6'0"

• You prefer extra coverage

• You want gym-to-casual versatility

• You're new to athletic shorts

• You prefer a more traditional fit

Final Verdict

The "best" gym short length isn't universal.

But for most active men today, the choice comes down to this:

5-inch shorts prioritize performance, mobility, and an athletic appearance.

7-inch shorts prioritize versatility, coverage, and everyday comfort.

If you're buying your first pair and want the safest option, go with 7".

If you're chasing a more athletic fit and better freedom of movement, try 5".

And if you're like most experienced gym-goers, you'll probably end up owning both.